Peter & Ernesto: A Tale of Two Sloths

Peter & Ernesto: A Tale of Two Sloths

Graham Annable’s distinctive, googly-eyed style is a wonderful match for this odd, adorable fable about two friends, Peter & Ernesto: A Tale of Two Sloths. Ernesto wants to leave their comfortable tree home to “see ALL of the sky!” while Peter enjoys staying put, looking at clouds and enjoying hibiscus. He’s content, as a sloth usually is, but Ernesto likes travel.

Peter fears the dangers, but Ernesto vows to return from his adventure. It’s great seeing two such good friends in spite of their different interests and aims.

Peter & Ernesto: A Tale of Two Sloths

The simple panel structure and lumpy shapes of the sloths make this a very comfortable read, particularly for the kids this is aimed at. As Ernesto crosses a shaky bridge or swims in the sea, the actions are beautifully captured in goofy, funny drawings that demonstrate the skills that come from Annable’s animation background.

While Ernesto makes friends with other animals and explores different climates, Peter finally ventures out to find his friend, nervous all the while. Check out this impressive expressiveness! At the end, Peter might be anxious, but he’s also determined.

Peter & Ernesto page by Graham Annable

Both are aided by other exciting creatures, and they learn along the way to try new things or tackle choices that scare them. Curiosity is good, but so is faithfulness and determination and patience. Although I liked the lessons, I loved how silly and funny the characters were, whether singing or climbing or helping the monkeys. It’s a fast read, but a rewarding one, and one that can be revisited multiple times. (The publisher provided an advance digital review copy and has posted preview pages.)



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